Investigation Update on Salmonella from Dog Treats

A final CDC update regarding a multistate outbreak of Salmonella illness linked to contact with pig ear dog treats has been posted at https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/pet-treats-07-19/index.html.

Investigation Summary:

• CDC and FDA have dropped their warning to avoid buying or feeding pig ear treats to dogs, except recalled treats.
• This outbreak appears to be over.
• A total of 154 ill people were reported from 34 states.
• 35 people were hospitalized. There were no deaths.
• Salmonella contamination was found in several types of pig ear treats, but no single supplier, distributor or common brand was identified that could account for all the illnesses.

Advice to Pet Owners:

• Do not give recalled pig ear treats to your dog. Throw them away or return them to the store where you bought them for a refund.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling pet food or treats, including pig ears.
  • Among ill people with information available, more than half reported never, rarely, or only sometimes washing hands after handling pet food and treats.
  • Keep pet treats away from children, and pick treats up when your pet is done with them.
  • When possible, store pet food and treats away from where human food is stored or prepared and away from the reach of young children.
  • Always follow storage instructions on pet food bags or containers.

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps 12-72 hours after eating contaminated food. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without treatment.

If you have questions about cases in a particular state, please call that state’s health department.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

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